FOR the life of me, I cannot understand why sauvignon blanc is so often served as an aperitif.

It seems most frequently to be the grape of choice at large functions where, presumably and understandably, the budget does not stretch to Champers.

I was at one such do last autumn and regretted taking the glass of white wine option (sauvignon) on arrival. I find sauvignon too acidic and usually too dry to drink on its own. A white that is round in the mouth and a tad sweeter would be more to my taste before dinner is served.

Kiwi (and Kiwi-style) sauvignon blanc, in particular, leaves me cold. I find the intense gooseberriness one dimensional and somewhat overpowering.

But there are some good examples too, of course, and if food is involved (especially asparagus), then it is game on.

I like The Wine Society’s own label Exhibition Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2013 from renowned producer Jane Hunter OBE. It has a certain elegance and charm. Bone dry and suitably crisp, it has distinct mineral notes alongside the limes, goosegog and herbs therein.

Another ‘SB’ that tickled my fancy hails from Chile’s relatively cool Casablanca Valley. Terrunyo Block 5 Sauvignon Blanc 2012 is from the Concha y Toro stable. It is also nicely dry, fresh and quite intense, with long flavours of lime, passion fruit, gooseberry, green pea and minerals.

If I was to choose an aperitif wine though, then Croix Saint Adel Cuvée Prestige Blanc 2012, Coteaux du Libron, would be perfect for the job. It is a new listing at Majestic.

Fruit forward and very quaffable, it is a blend of chardonnay, viognier and sauvignon, with rich flavours of tropical, citrus, peach and some minerality too.


The Society’s Exhibition Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2013, £10.50 from The Wine Society 18/20

Terrunyo Block 5 Sauvignon Blanc 2012, £14.50 from Wine Direct 18/20

Croix Saint Adel Cuvée Prestige Blanc 2012, Coteaux du Libron, £7.99 each when you buy two at Majestic 18/20